iPhone 16 Pro Max proximity sensor issue with e-SIM

Hello, I hope everyone is doing well.

I have recently upgraded from a 15PM to a brand new iPhone 16 Pro Max and its proximity sensor has been giving me some issues. I have a screen protector on, iOS has been updated to 18.6.

The display stays dark after the call. Upon pressing the power button it lights up after a few seconds (3-5). At times the display stays dark during an incoming call, the phone is responsive (ringing and vibrating) but the display remains dark.

I called the Apple Authorized Service Provider and briefed them about the issue. The operator told me that it is happening on 16PMs with specific MNP sim cards/e-sims, so I should try a different sim card and see whether or not that fixes the issue otherwise they suggested I bring the device to them so they can fix it through some "settings".

Could it really be a sim card/e-sim interference? I'm currently using an e-sim in my phone. Had it in my 15PM and everything worked perfectly.

[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Original Title: PROXIMITY SENSOR ISSUE?

iPhone 16 Pro Max, iOS 18

Posted on Jul 31, 2025 10:47 AM

Top-ranking reply

QuiGonJinn

Level 1

38 points

Posted on Jul 31, 2025 11:04 AM

You can try removing the eSIM and making a call through FaceTime with WiFi to check if the sensor works. If it works, the eSIM argument is no longer valid in that scenario.

Personally, I think the eSIM interference explanation is deflection on their part, trying to isolate the issue and avoid taking any responsibility.

I’d try taking off the screen protector. If it’s too opaque or not perfectly aligned, it can cause light refraction or partially obstruct the sensor, which can be a direct culprit for the issue you’re experiencing.

If the sensor still doesn’t work during WiFi FaceTime calls, with the screen protector removed, then it is 100% a hardware/calibration issue.

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20 replies

Maz_ijb Author

Level 1

14 points

Jul 31, 2025 11:12 AM in response to QuiGonJinn

Thank you for the response. I will definitely try doing that. I browsed other forums where users have reported the same issue even with their screen protectors removed.

Jul 31, 2025 11:22 AM in response to Maz_ijb

Maz_ijb wrote:

He was one of the Apple Authorized Service Provider reps. I was surprised to hear about how he blamed the eSIM and mobile carrier.

You should be surprised as that's just total BUNK.

Jul 31, 2025 12:24 PM in response to Maz_ijb

You've made 10 calls since you removed the screen protector? It seems you just removed it based on comments in this thread.

Aug 4, 2025 1:29 PM in response to Maz_ijb

Good luck with the new phone!

KiltedTim

Level 10

224,886 points

Sep 18, 2025 4:39 AM in response to raghvendra258

This has nothing to do with the topic of this discussion, which has been dead for almost a month and a half.

Suggest you start your own thread.

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iPhone 16 Pro Max proximity sensor issue with e-SIM